If we ask people about their New Year’s resolutions, we are pretty sure that the one that tops the list is always the resolution to lose weight or gain something. Yes, you heard that right! Losing weight is a battle just like gaining weight. For heavier body types, weight loss always seems like a far cry. From following fad diets to starving yourself of almost everything, the weighing machine won’t budge no matter what. However, in this constant battle to lose weight, people fall into the trap of certain weight loss myths.
It is time to prick the bubble for all those who are looking for ways to lose weight. Health Shots reached out to nutritionist Kavita Devgan to dispel some of the weight loss myths.
Some commonly believed weight loss myths
1. Following Fads Helps to Lose Weight
Come on, who doesn’t want a quick fix? The existence of the craze is proof of this. Weight loss is not an overnight game. It is a slow and beautiful journey. If you want to see significant changes in your weight, you have to make consistent efforts with the right knowledge. Not every fad diet is suitable for everyone.
In the words of Kavita Devgan, “Following the fad never helps you lose weight in a healthy way. Instead, educate yourself. Losing weight is science, and you have to treat it with respect. Don’t just rely on rumours. Read some literature, open some sites, and talk to some diet professionals. You will feel that your questions have very simple answers and your misconceptions and delusions have also been cleared. And, it will go a long way in making you successful in your fight against the flab. ,
2. Low fat means healthy
If the label says “low fat,” we miss no chance of catching it, thinking it’s the perfect way to keep off the weight. But this noble utterance doesn’t make sense, because less fat doesn’t necessarily mean fewer calories. Food can still be loaded with carbs and sugar and high in calories. So, read the label in a little more detail, Devgan says.
4. Removing Carbs From Your Diet Leads To Faster Weight Loss
Those on a strict weight loss journey eliminate carbs from their diet. The truth is, it may not really work. Our body is always in dire need of carbs, so feed your body with them. Also, make sure you’re choosing the right carbohydrates (opt for whole refined), and keep your portions under control. Eliminating them completely will only make you crave them more, and sometimes you end up eating more than your body needs.
5. Taking Supplements May Speed Up Weight Loss
The market is flooded with weight loss supplements that claim to show massive results. But no, they don’t work for everyone. For some people the only reason they work is the placebo effect. People fall prey to smart marketing tactics and start feeling the need for supplements, making them more aware of what they eat naturally.
The bottom line is that you must expose yourself to the complex relationship between food, your body, and your weight. Instead of blindly following myths or fads, try to follow an evidence-based approach.
